Our Networks

A key part of Parachute’s work as a force to awaken and move Canadians is to connect with others, and to facilitate links and collaborations with those in injury prevention. As such, the Parachute partner network is a vital component of our work.

Schools:

Parachute works in high schools across Canada to present the No Regrets Live program and special youth-focused injury campaigns, such as teen driver safety.

We also work in elementary schools presenting our Safe Kids Week, Walk This Way (Pedestrian Safety) and Brain Waves programs.

Public support is integral to the successful implementation of these programs, and the school community, along with Parachute, work with local injury prevention champions, health units, and emergency services to ensure these programs flourish. To find out more about our school programs and which schools are involved, please contact the Solutions Department at Parachute.

Chapters:

Parachute’s ThinkFirst Chapters are located across Canada. They are comprised of individuals who devote their time and energy to prevent head and spinal cord injuries. Through public awareness initiatives such as school presentations and helmet fittings, volunteers with Parachute’s ThinkFirst Chapters work to let everyone know about the importance of protecting the brain and spinal cord from injury and trauma.

An Advisory Committee, consisting of medical professionals, educators, coaches, emergency service representatives and parents, guides each Chapter. These committees help the Chapter Director and Coordinator, as well as other volunteers, build community relations, set priorities and develop strategic plans. The Chapter Director and Coordinator manage the daily work of the chapter and liaise with Parachute regularly. Read more about what a Chapter is.

Designated Safe Communities:

Sixty-eight communities in Canada have been designated as Safe Communities, with more communities seeking this designation every year. Linked to an international movement begun in 1989, Canadian Safe Communities believe that a safe life is a basic right. A designation is a public affirmation of, and testament to, a community’s aspiration to create a safer life for all its citizens.

Communities who have obtained the Safe Community designation have shown considerable commitment to promoting injury prevention and safety promotion locally. They have brought together local officials from their municipalities at a leadership table, including representatives from local government, public health, police, fire and emergency services, educational institutions, local business, and health and safety organizations. Designated Safe Communities have completed a formal Priority Setting Exercise and community scan, to inform their programming decisions.